| Description | Cardiobacterium sp. is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that prefers mesophilic temperature conditions (20-45°C). It is primarily classified as a chemoheterotroph and is often found as part of the normal flora in the human oral cavity and respiratory tract, specifically residing on mucosal surfaces and within dental plaque. Cardiobacterium sp. is classified as a microaerophile, meaning it thrives in environments with reduced oxygen concentrations and has an optimal growth requirement for carbon dioxide. As a member of the family Cardiobacteriaceae, Cardiobacterium sp. demonstrates a unique ability to adapt to its environmental niche. Its Gram-negative cell wall structure features an outer membrane composed of lipopolysaccharides, which contributes to its pathogenic potential. While it is part of the normal flora, it can occasionally act as an opportunistic pathogen, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, leading to infections such as endocarditis, particularly affecting patients with pre-existing heart valve issues. Chemoheterotrophy indicates that Cardiobacterium sp. relies on organic compounds for energy and carbon, utilizing substrates derived from various metabolic processes involving sugars and amino acids. This metabolism is vital for its survival in the nutrient-rich environments typical of the oral cavity. Cardiobacterium sp. has also been noted for its slow growth and nutritional requirements, often necessitating enriched media for laboratory cultivation. Moreover, its presence in human microbiota plays a role in maintaining oral health, highlighting the complex interplay between host and microbe. Understanding the ecological role and pathogenic potential of Cardiobacterium sp. can provide valuable insights into both oral microbiology and systemic diseases linked to microbial imbalance. |
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